What Happened
Airbus Addresses Icing Issues with Pratt & Whitney Engines in Freezing Fog
Airbus has introduced new cold-weather takeoff restrictions for A320neo-family aircraft equipped with Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan engines, limiting takeoffs in freezing fog to visibility above 150 meters. The restriction was prompted by operational issues reported by Air Astana, the flag carrier of Kazakhstan, which experienced delays at Almaty Airport in November 2025. Airbus has updated its ground-engine operating procedure for icing conditions, and Pratt & Whitney is working on a longer-term fix. The restriction applies to 11 A320neos, four A321neos, and 13 A321LRs operated by Air Astana and its low-cost subsidiary Fly Arystan.